Date Masamune ordered this shrine to be built as a home for the guardians who protected his castle. The castle, built in 1607 atop a hill, is a fine example of the architecture of the Momoyama period (1573-1615). Its flamboyant porch and also the coffered ceiling decorated with 55 brightly coloured hand-painted flowers enhance the fine austere decor of gold and black lacquer. Every year, on 14 February, a procession of scantily-clad men and women files past on the way to burn New Year decorations in front of the Hachiman shrine. Following the earthquakes and tsunami of March 11 2011 and the ensuing nuclear accidents, we recommend you consult the National Tourist Office of Japan: http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/index.html